Hitachi Rail has completed the upgrade of the 60-kilometre railway line between Rákos station in Budapest and Hatvan in eastern Hungary, enhancing capacity, safety and operational efficiency for both passenger and freight services.
The modernisation forms part of one of Hungary’s most significant infrastructure projects in recent years and includes the installation of advanced signalling technologies such as the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2. This system, now commissioned and operational, enables continuous train monitoring and communication via trackside balises, a Radio Block Centre (RBC), and GSM-R radio systems, allowing trains to operate safely at speeds of up to 160 km/h.
Six electronic interlockings at Rákosliget, Pécel, Isaszeg, Gödöllő, Babatpuszta and Aszód have also been upgraded to prevent conflicting train movements, supported by the installation of 73 point machines and the integration of 23 level crossings into the signalling network.
To support predictive maintenance, Hitachi Rail has introduced AI-powered diagnostics to monitor asset conditions along the route from Budapest to Hatvan. These systems track the performance of point machines and detect early signs of potential faults, enabling maintenance teams to act before service disruptions occur.
Initiated in 2017, the project reached key milestones in 2021 with the electrification and modernisation of infrastructure, and now in 2024 with the commissioning of ETCS Level 2.
“This project highlights Hungary’s growing leadership in railway innovation,” said Hannes Boyer, Vice President, Main Line Signalling at Hitachi Rail. “Our cutting-edge solutions will help increase speed, reliability and capacity on this important corridor, supporting more sustainable and seamless transport.”
The upgraded line plays a vital role in Hungary’s transport network, serving a high volume of daily commuters and freight trains, and is now better positioned to support the country’s long-term sustainability and mobility goals.
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